English National Opera is delaying the reopening of its home theatre, the London Coliseum, until 21 February, after its £41m restoration project.

Chief executive Sean Doran said he wanted to ensure no technical problems affected the opera's new season. It had been due to reopen on 7 February.

"It looks absolutely stunning and we are thrilled," Mr Doran said.

Peter Sellars' Nixon in China will be the first production staged when the West End venue opens its doors again.

Phyllida Lloyd's new production of Wagner's The Rhinegold will follow on Monday 23 February.

"There was a serious risk that both Nixon in China and The Rhinegold would be artistically compromised or even lost completely - this is not a risk we are prepared to take," Mr Doran explained.

"The restoration has adhered to an extremely tight schedule throughout and in these last weeks it is crucial that standards are not compromised during the reinstatement of our technical operation in order to meet the deadline."

Mr Doran added the project remained within its budget.

The new-look Coliseum will have more public space, improved facilities, and a new ventilation system.